Outrage over trees trimmed along Jan Smuts Avenue
HYDE PARK – The centre and cutting contractor are willing to make amends by planting more trees.
A concerned tree service company, TreeWorks drew attention to trees along Jan Smuts Avenue near Hyde Park Corner shopping centre that had been cut in an ‘unacceptable’ manner.
The company said the trees were ‘butchered’, however, the shopping centre issued a statement stating that they gave permission for the trees along the boundary of the centre to be trimmed.
“Due to an unfortunate miscommunication, the commissioned contractor cut the trees beyond acceptable levels. Hyde Park Corner subsequently arranged for an arborist to assess the cutting and obtain a prognosis for the trees. We have received assurances that the trees have not been irrevocably damaged and will likely show significant new regrowth in spring,” the statement read. The centre said they were confident the trees would recover.
“It was never our intention to sacrifice trees for advertising exposure. The contractor responsible for trimming the trees has provided a written and heartfelt apology and will be replanting six new trees which Hyde Park Corner will match by sponsoring an additional six trees. We will consult with Johannesburg City Parks to establish a suitable site for the trees to be planted.”
Hyde Park Corner said it took enormous pride in its landscaping and the heritage and value of its trees. The centre added that it had spent about R133 000 protecting its trees and those on city council land against the ravages of the shot-hole borer beetle.
“We remain committed to corporate sustainability by taking into consideration our social, economic, and environmental responsibilities, implementing ethical practices and good governance, and understanding our impact on the natural environment,” the statement concluded.
Be sure not to miss next week’s edition of the Rosebank Killarney Gazette for a detailed account of the story.
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